Monday, February 8, 2010

Shhh ... It's A Secret (Sort Of)

I highly doubt that my new brother-in-law reads my blog so I think it is safe to reveal the hat I knit for him in this post. And I suppose it would be okay if he did see it because he commissioned me to make him a hat ... but I'd like a little element of surprise when I give it to him.

I am so honored that he asked me to hand knit him something. He requested a stocking cap with ear flaps to keep his ears warm as he rides his bike in chilly temperatures, and he told me he loves the color blue. This is a time when I love being on Ravelry because there are so many patterns (often free) and great tips from other knitters to pick through. I chose a hat that had ear flaps and a simple fair isle zig zag stripe. My conclusion: not bad for being my first hat!

Modifications/Notes: I followed the pattern exactly except I cast on 96 stitches and used a size US 8 needle to make a bigger hat. I also went around the edge and ear flaps with a crochet stitch to finish it off and reinforce the flaps. I found fair isle to be quite fun to do and not nearly as difficult as I expected. I am a little concerned as to how it will fit my brother-in-law, so my fingers are crossed. I hope to have a photo or two of him wearing it that I may post at a later date.

My daughter has already put in an order for a hat for her. But hers will undoubtedly be pink in color as she said the blue and gray "just isn't my style".Now that's a girl who knows what she likes!